Deschamps’ Days Numbered: French FA Set to Axe Didier After Spain Humiliation

French Football Federation Backs Didier Deschamps Despite Underwhelming Euro 2024 Campaign

The French Football Federation (FFF) has thrown its weight behind beleaguered manager Didier Deschamps, confirming its intention to extend his contract until at least the 2026 World Cup. Despite France’s disappointing exit from Euro 2024 at the semi-final stage, President Philippe Diallo has given his public backing to the veteran coach.

Diallo cited the team’s achievements under Deschamps, including their 2018 World Cup victory and their run to the 2022 World Cup final, as reasons to continue with the 53-year-old at the helm. However, he did offer a hint of criticism, suggesting that there were "some areas for improvement" that the team needed to address.

The decision is likely to come as a relief to Deschamps, who faced intense scrutiny during and after the tournament. The manager was heavily criticized for his tactics and player selection, particularly in the semi-final loss to Spain. The French squad struggled to create clear-cut chances and looked toothless in attack, ultimately going down 2-1 to their Spanish opponents.

Deschamps has been in charge of Les Bleus since 2012, and has overseen a period of unprecedented success for the French national team. He has now won 82 of his 153 matches in charge, a impressive win rate of over 53%.

But despite his impressive track record, Deschamps’ time at the top is not without its challenges. The French squad is still reeling from the shock retirement of Karim Benzema after the 2022 World Cup, and injuries to key players like Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann have taken their toll.

Mbappé, in particular, struggled during Euro 2024, unable to reproduce his sparkling form from previous tournaments due to a broken nose sustained in the opening group game against Austria. Wearing a protective mask did little to alleviate his discomfort, with the 25-year-old stating that it was an "absolute horror" to play with the visage.

For now, it seems that Deschamps will get the chance to rebuild and revamp his squad in the aftermath of Euro 2024. But the French football faithful will be expecting to see significant improvements in the team’s performances and results if they are to achieve their ambitious goals in the coming years.

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